The Rivers State Government responded to claims from supporters of President Bola Tinubu. Organizers planned a rally at the Yakubu Gowon Stadium in Port Harcourt. However they moved the event to another location.
Wike’s Accusation
Nyesom Wike accused the state government of denying access to the stadium. The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory spoke at the rally. He said organizers applied for permission but received a refusal.
Wike stated, “We applied to the state government for the use of the Yakubu Gowon Stadium. They refused us.” Additionally he warned of future actions. He declared, “Let me say this clearly: next time they do this, if you don’t approve it, we will break in by force.”
Furthermore Wike emphasized unity. He added, “We are all from Rivers State. Nobody can deny us the use of state facilities.” He concluded, “If you refuse to grant approval, we will do the needful, and we will take it by force. Heaven will not fall.”
Government’s Response
The Rivers State Government denied the allegations. Officials explained the stadium’s condition. They stated that reconstruction work made it unsafe.
Honour Sirawoo issued a statement. The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information and Communications described the claims as “false and misleading.” He affirmed, “The Yakubu Gowon Stadium is currently undergoing reconstruction and is unsafe for public use.”
Additionally Commissioner Christopher Green confirmed no formal request arrived. He noted the alternative venue belonged to the state.
Safety Inspection
Officials inspected the site. Sirawoo joined Green and engineer Michael Ebitenye. They observed ongoing work. The inspection revealed risks. Heavy traffic could damage underground pipes. VIP sections posed hazards too.
Furthermore, the contractor Monimichelle prioritized safety. The firm refused use during renovation.
Rally Details
Supporters held the rally at Captain Elechi Amadi Polytechnic. The event inaugurated coordinators. These leaders covered three senatorial districts and 23 local government areas. Amb. Desmond Akawor chaired the Renewed Hope Agenda. The group supported President Tinubu.
Political Context
The incident highlighted tensions between Wike and Governor Siminalayi Fubara. Wike previously governed Rivers State. Now he serves in the federal government.
Meanwhile Sirawoo advised leaders to focus on the state’s interests. He stressed life after politics. Governor Fubara committed to Tinubu’s re-election.The government urged calm. Political activities continued in Rivers State.
